Amalgam Fillings Could Raise Mercury Levels

Dental amalgam, a type of filling material that is a combination of mercury, silver, tin, and other metals, is a cheap and long-lasting way to restore your teeth and prevent further tooth decay.

However, a study that analyzed the link between dental fillings and mercury exposure of around 15,000 individuals conducted by the department of environmental health science from University of Georgia’s College of Public Health reports that using amalgam can cause mercury levels to be prolonged in the body. This is the first study that controls for variables such as age, ethnicity, race, gender, and diet.

The study’s main author, Lei Yin, PhD, MD, MS, says that although tooth decay is a common problem, there is little discussion concerning the different types of dental materials available. Co-author Xiaozhong “John” Yu adds that they hope the study accurately measures mercury level exposure so that scientists can assess future risks.

Although the Food and Drug Administration deemed amalgam fillings safe for adults and children over 6 years old in 2009, the researchers found that there was a dramatic increase in methyl mercury, which is most likely linked to dental amalgam. A high level of mercury is toxic and could result in problems in the brain, heart, kidney, lung, and immune system.

Because it is essential that our patients are properly informed about their choices for dental fillings, please ask us any questions about whether or not the materials we use have an impact on your health!

Your little ones and teens are welcome to visit our pediatric dentist Dr. Van. Dr. Emad is happy to help with your orthodontic needs. For wisdom teeth extractions or any other periodontal or oral surgery needs, Dr. Ghazi would be more than willing to help.

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About Us

Dr. Ejaz and Dr. Femina Ali have a strong desire to provide the very best that dentistry has to offer, and have a combined 40 years of clinical experience to meet that commitment! Graduates of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Drs. Ali and Ali have become recognized leaders in cosmetic, implant, and restorative dentistry. In order to remain on the leading edge of dental technologies and techniques, their personal commitment includes hundreds of hours each year in advanced dental training. Drs. Ali and Ali consistently stay up to date on the most current techniques including procedures in restorative, TMJ, sedation, implant and laser dentistry.